Includes the original envelope, with "ST. LOUIS/MO." double-circle postmark tying #65 3c rose.

The writer of this letter, Marcus E. Tuttle, (1841-1866), was a young physician, who had moved from Philadelphia to St. Louis a few months before writing this letter.He died at age 25, on Nov. 12, 1866.

Superb content , in which Marcus Tuttle writes of the State Militia being called out, and of his attempts to get an exemption from serving. Of special interest is his writing how he has seen General Grant several times, and describes him as "not more conspicuous than a common farmer", and "the most unassuming man that I ever saw".

Includes:

"I have had the measles since I last wrote. Kept my bed for six days. I had so far recovered Tuesday as to be about my & attend to my business. I have felt well since, and am slowly recovering my strength.

The State Militia is called out, & all have to report on & before the 1st of May. I have not obtained my exemption yet, but I think I will be able to. My Diploma will get my exemption, I think. If not, I have 60 Dollars of Military Bonds, & by paying 30 of the bonds, I will be exempt for 1864. That is, the State Militia, & I don't think there will be a draft. I suppose that these Militia will be organized for Garrison & Guard duty in the State. They receive no bounties, but the regular soldier's pay.

This is a very active Military Post. I see thousands of Veterans and quite a large no. of the leading Generals. I have seen Grant several times. He is not more conspicuous than a common farmer, & is really the most unassuming man that I ever saw...."